10 October 2011

Every now and then I come across a situation that allows me to resetmy expectations. Recently this happened at a performance of Iris byCirque du Soleil.

The back story is that I had spoken to some hard-line Cirque fans whothought the use of video and technology was a departure from theformula that defines a good Cirque show. They could not have been morewrong.

The music and performances were absolutely the first-rate productionfor which Cirque is known. The stage had many unique characteristicsand formed a character on par with past productions. And there was aheart-string pulling tale of love at the core that grounded eachperformance into a semi-coherent storyline in the way that only thebest shows can.

The show has fantastic repeat watchability thanks to severaloutstanding ensemble numbers that are jam-packed with frenetic energyand a marvelous cascade of characters that are cacophony of movementand superbly timed physical expression. The fantastic show-stoppingnumber after intermission blew my mind and was simply delightful.

Needless to say, I will be booking another seat in the near future somy senses can savor the delectable symphonic and gymnastic treat thatwas Iris.